Outsourcing Architectural 3D Rendering Services: When It’s a Game-Changer for Teams


Outsourcing for your architectural 3D rendering services needs is definitely something you would want to try. It is something that can absolutely change the course for your team. Times are changing, and architectural companies are seeing a steady growth in the demand for top-of-the-line visualizations. This is why in-house teams might be lacking in this area despite being the best in what they do. Experts focusing solely on these services are considered as pro-players in this field.

There is a thin line between being overwhelmed and being busy with what they’re most capable of doing. There are also situations when the scales may start to tip over, and these tasks drastically turn into being outright overwhelming for your team. During cases like this, your best and most strategic move is to outsource your architectural 3D rendering needs.

Cad Crowd and its vetted network of professionals create opportunities for architectural firms and designers to access a wider field of talent without breaking the bank—no more worries about finding the best professionals who are also available to work on your projects.

Doing so ensures that your 3D team will keep up with their tasks without experiencing burnout and still have the expected output delivered on time. Here are the most common instances when it makes perfect sense to entrust your archviz needs to reliable and trusted services:


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RELATED: The benefits of 3D architectural rendering for companies in real estate

When architectural 3D rendering is a game-changer for teams

Temporary unavailability of in-house team members 

Sick and vacation leaves are unavoidable, and if one or more of your 3D artists are sick or on their much-needed break, it can easily compromise your capacity and expected delivery timeline. Outsourcing can give you a better and more seamless plan for continuity to ensure that your projects will proceed without hiccups. 

However, it doesn’t mean you should turn to freelancers whenever it happens. A long-term and solid partnership with a professional architectural 3D rendering service provider is a wise solution. You can count on them to step in even at short notice to ensure that you will meet the timelines of your project with the same level of commitment to quality, just like your in-house team. 

RELATED: Top 3D architectural rendering books, magazines, and blogs for companies to follow

Large urgent orders

Now and then, an order may come in with a tight deadline and large scope. Orders of this kind can test the limits of the capacities of your in-house team. Outsourcing your architectural 3D rendering needs, in this case is critical to handle such orders. It will be a good temporary support for your production team to help you meet the urgent demands of the project. The flexibility will also ensure that you can accept more projects coming your way without burdening your CG artists beyond necessary. 

Requirements for Innovative Presentations 

To stay competitive in the industry, you also need to push boundaries during your design presentations. If your in-house expert 3D artists aren’t equipped with the required skills to produce immersive experiences, virtual tours, or animations, you can also outsource the service so you can give your clients more solutions to choose from. Working with a dedicated studio will help you impress even the most discerning clients with your breakthrough presentations. There’s also the bonus of improving your team’s learning curve by exposing them to new approaches and techniques. 

3d exterior rendering services

Seasonal workload demands 

The demands for architectural design services ebb and flow in areas with different seasons, typically enjoying peaks during warmer months. This means that the summer and spring months are the busiest times of the year. This has led to more projects, which has also increased the need for architectural 3D rendering services. Seasonal peaks can stretch your in-house designers thin, so you can cover their tracks with outsourcing. 

RELATED: Premier architectural rendering blogs to elevate your firm’s visual design expertise 

Outsourcing architectural 3D rendering can also be extra helpful for interior decorators and residential designers. Most of the time, major holidays give them more projects. It’s the time of the year when homeowners redecorate or renovate to welcome families and friends. As a result, you can plan your outsourcing needs ahead of time. It will lessen the pressure on your part so that you can handle more projects without neglecting timelines or work quality. 

Limitations in technical resources 

The world of architectural 3D visualization firms is enjoying rapid advancements. It now sees a higher demand for animations and other similar technologies, such as immersive experiences and virtual tours. Not all members of the in-house team have the necessary software and hardware knowledge to produce intricate CGIs. 

Outsourcing to a trusted service provider with the required tech infrastructure, such as rendering farms, will help eliminate this gap. This way, you can take advantage of revolutionary solutions that save you from the need to invest in expensive technologies. These solutions might not even be useful for you everyday or you may not have enough budget for them right now. 

RELATED: What is architectural visualization and why architectural rendering services use it

Reasons to outsource your architectural 3D rendering needs

Now that you know the specific instances when it can be a true game-changer to outsource your architectural 3D rendering needs, here are more reasons to convince you to do so sooner rather than later:

1. Access to tested and proven expertise 

Outsourcing will give you access to an international pool of talented professionals specializing in 3D architectural rendering. They are 3D rendering experts who keep up with the newest trends and technologies. You can ensure that their outputs adhere to the highest innovative and quality standards. You might find it challenging to maintain this level of expertise without your team without making some significant investments. 

2. Budget-friendliness

Another good reason to outsource 3D rendering services for your architectural projects is the fact that it offers significant savings in terms of expenses. Architectural companies can save themselves from the high costs associated with having an in-house team. These may include salaries, technological upgrades, software licenses, and training. Outsourcing allows firms to pay only for the required services so they can easily control overhead costs and improve their bottom line as a result. 

RELATED: How to enhance your company’s 3D architectural rendering with advanced techniques

3. Improved innovation 

Every time you outsource 3D visualization services, you can also tap into advanced 3D rendering software and techniques that might not be available in your company just yet. Trusted service providers invest substantially in state-of-the-art technologies to remain competitive. It means that their clients can take advantage of the newest innovations available in the world of commercial rendering and archviz as a whole. 

4. Speedy time-to-market

Companies can speed up the design process with the assistance of dedicated architectural 3D rendering experts to allow speedy revisions and faster approvals. This level of efficiency can cut down project timelines so that companies can finish more projects and meet market demands quickly and easily. 

5. Better focus on core competencies 

Outsourcing non-core activities such as 3D rendering will allow companies to pay more attention to their key expertise areas like project management and design. The strategic focus will lead to heightened productivity levels and better results for every project entrusted to them. It’s because their core team isn’t stretched too thinly because of multiple responsibilities. 

3d interior rendering experts 2

RELATED: The best architectural rendering companies and 3D rendering services

6. Monetary savings 

Outsourcing architectural 3D rendering designers can help companies enjoy significant cost reductions and savings. Working with external professionals for outsourced projects eliminates the need to buy expensive hardware and software or the need to spend money on the in-house staff’s regular training. The cost-effective solution will also help with more efficient allocation of design budgets to help you use your investment to the fullest. Outsourcing also lets you enjoy more savings without jeopardizing the quality of the results. 

7. Reduced risk

Companies can also mitigate the different risks related to the execution of projects if they outsource their architectural 3D rendering needs. Expert rendering services follow high standards of quality control and project management to minimize erroneous mistakes. Outsourcing service providers also adhere to global standards to help companies guarantee that their projects keep up with the necessary laws and regulations. 

8. Flexibility and scalability 

Architectural projects have different complexities and sizes. This means that they need different levels of resource allocation. Outsourcing 3D architecture designers will allow you to scale your operations either up or down according to the current demands of the project without the need to lay off or hire more staff members. The flexibility also helps companies manage their project loads more efficiently while keeping up with market changes. 

RELATED: 3D architectural rendering options: in-house, self-learning, or outsourcing services? 

9. High-quality results

Outsourcing gives you access to a large pool of highly skilled talents who have mastered the art and science of architectural 3D rendering. They have significant experience and are armed with the latest technologies and tools that help them provide unparalleled results. These experts are up to date with the different techniques and trends in the industry to ensure that they produce high-quality renderings. This expertise level isn’t always easy to maintain within your in-house team. Outsourcing is the better choice because it will give you access to photorealistic images and high-quality results. 

10. Secured data

Reliable 3D photorealistic rendering service providers prioritize the confidentiality and security of the data entrusted to their hands. They have stringent security measures in place to keep your sensitive information protected. These include strict access controls, secure servers, and data encryption. These services also comply with global standards on data protection, so you can be at peace knowing that the safety of your intellectual property is guaranteed. 

11. Time-savings 

You can significantly reduce the turnaround times of your projects if you outsource them to the right experts. External 3D visualization companies have dedicated teams exclusively focused on architectural rendering tasks. It allows them to finish projects faster with improved efficiency compared to in-house team members who are tasked with multiple responsibilities. 

RELATED: Choosing optimal hardware and software for your company’s 3D architectural renderings

Thanks to this efficiency, you can also speed up project timelines and meet tight deadlines so you can remain more competitive in the industry. Work can also continue round the clock to further speed up project completion. 

How Cad Crowd can help

Making it this far means that you likely need help with your architectural rendering. Cad Crowd has proven experience with an inexhaustible number of designs and themes across many industries in architecture, product design, and engineering.

Don’t waste time, and contact Cad Crowd today to help you find the most skilled freelancers who can do the job for you! 

Contact us for a free quote today.

author avatar

MacKenzie Brown is the founder and CEO of Cad Crowd. With over 18 years of experience in launching and scaling platforms specializing in CAD services, product design, manufacturing, hardware, and software development, MacKenzie is a recognized authority in the engineering industry. Under his leadership, Cad Crowd serves esteemed clients like NASA, JPL, the U.S. Navy, and Fortune 500 companies, empowering innovators with access to high-quality design and engineering talent.

Connect with me: LinkedInXCad Crowd

How Architectural Millwork Drawings Services are Essential for CAD Drafting Companies


Woodworking is often a crucial element for most architectural works, whether you’re building a new house or handling home improvement of any sort. It won’t be much of a problem if your client (or homeowner) is fine with purchasing mass-produced furniture or wooden decorative elements because then you can bill the client directly for every purchase. However, things can get quite a bit more complex when the client specifically asks for custom woodwork products, which always require millwork drawing services beforehand.

Cad Crowd helps designers, architects, and companies find the best freelance millwork drawing services in the market. We’ve got years of experience and an extensive network of talent that we’ve made easy to tap into as a leading provider of freelance design services. Along that comes a lot of insight that we’d love to share.

In this article, we’ll examine how and why millwork drawing services are an essential part of your CAD drafting company.


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Millworkers produce millwork drawings

The problem is that – and let’s get something straight here – designers (or general contractors, depending on who’s actually in charge of the project) do not produce millwork drawings. You might think that if a CAD drafting company was hired to create 3D modelings of the project plan, it should also be responsible for producing millwork drawings; after all, the drawings are some schematics to be included in the construction documents, so the drafting company should handle it, too. But you’d be wrong. Millwork drawings should remain in the domain of the millworker assigned to build the custom woodwork.

At least in the United States, the typical workflow in such a project requires the designer to provide the millworker with a “design intent” or basic information about the product dimensions, materials, styles, colors, finishes, and other little details (such as the types of fasteners and decorative elements). It’s more or less a sketch or rough visualization of how the final product should look. The millworker then takes the design intent and interprets it into a set of technical millwork drawings.

This is also the main reason why two millwork drawings for the same product can be entirely different from one millworker to another. Millworkers and design and drafting firms probably have different practices, tools, and methods to get the job done. For example, the main components of a desk (legs and tabletops) can be either handcrafted or fabricated using benchtop CNC; each method needs a different drawing. While there are certain standards to follow, such as document formatting and units of measurement, the details are always drawn in accordance with the method.

RELATED: Casework vs. millwork design: A detailed breakdown for freelancers and architectural firms

Designers are not millworkers, meaning they may not always know the tooling specifications in the millwork shop or what processes are employed to build the product. More importantly, this is all about liability in the sense that the designers don’t want to be held responsible for assembly issues or if the final product has installation problems.

millwork drawing for a cabinet

Once the drawings are done, the millworker sends the documents to the designer for approval. The goal is to make sure that the design intent remains intact. In case something doesn’t conform to the original idea, the drawings are sent back for revision. For instance, if the frame of the nightstand is supposed to be made of stainless steel, as indicated on the approved drawing, and the millworker ends up fabricating the parts from aluminum, somebody has to be responsible for the unauthorized change. The client likely blames the designer for the mistake, and yet the designer knows that the millworker is the party in the wrong here.

To avoid unnecessary errors like that, it’s advisable to work only with a local (to the client), reputable millwork shop as a proactive measure. For a small project with no more than four or five custom woodwork products, a one-man operation millwork shop should be able to handle the workload just fine.

Another thing to put in mind here is the cost associated with millwork drawings and fabrications from architectural design firms. As far as the client is concerned, all the custom woodwork products fall within the designer’s responsibility. The client shouldn’t be bothered with how the products are made. This is to simplify the contract agreement and payment. The millworker is a subcontractor of the designer; the former works on the latter’s behalf. So, if you’re the designer, you’re expected to cover the cost associated with the millwork jobs out of your own pocket. But you can always list it as an additional service in the invoice and charge an extra fee to the client.

RELATED: Millwork drawings for drafting and design: Complete cost, rates, and fees for firms and companies

Design intent

To say that a design intent resembles a rough sketch might be a bit insulting to designers. Although it probably isn’t the most visually representative of the product, the “sketch” is pretty comprehensive from a technical standpoint. Let’s say the product in question is a pretty elaborate nightstand with multiple soft-close drawers, cabinet doors, hidden compartments, built-in LED lighting, and a unique locking mechanism. If the client wants to use specific brands for the locks and LED lights, the designer will point it out in the drawing. Details about joinery and door/drawer handles must be included as well. Sometimes, the client also wants different colors for the top, side, bottom, and front panels, so everything must be clearly annotated. So, it’s all those in addition to the general specifications like dimensions and materials.

There have been cases where the sketch comes with some pretty prescriptive notes; for example, edges need to be sanded off and smooth to the touch, metal elements should be chrome plated, the bottom of the legs need to have high-quality non-slip pads, specific types of joinery to use, and so on. With that in mind, design intent is more than just a rough sketch; it can be complicated depending on the product’s intricacy. And most custom woodwork products tend to be pretty intricate.

How millwork services are essential to CAD drafting companies

To reiterate, only the millworker understands the shop well enough to be able to produce the drawings based on the design intent. That said, it’s not uncommon for millworkers to outsource the drawings to professional drafters. If outsourcing is the case here (unless they can do the job themselves), most millworkers will likely hire an independent drafter – rather than an interior design firm – for budget reasons. Hiring a single-person operation is often much more affordable than an entire firm, allowing for a better profit margin.

RELATED: How do companies use millwork shop drawings for 3D furniture modeling and design?

What if you run a small CAD drafting and design company that doesn’t have an in-house draftsperson to produce millwork drawings?

Let’s say a designer hires the company to produce a 3D floor plan for an interior redesign project, which involves replacing old furniture pieces with new custom woodwork. Now, before you rush to the computer and fire up that CAD software of yours, the right thing to do first is to get in contact with the millwork shop assigned to build the new furniture. Without guidance from the millworker (concerning the tooling, techniques, methods, etc.), it’s nearly impossible to know if what you’re drawing is even close to being accurate.

cabinet designed from millwork

And because you don’t have an in-house drafter, you then outsource the job to another millwork drawing service. A CAD drafting company outsourcing a millwork drawing to an independent drafter doesn’t sound ideal indeed, but there’s nothing wrong with it anyway. While it’s the only option, it doesn’t mean you can’t reap some benefits from the practice. Utilizing an external drafter might be not only helpful to the company but also essential to the project’s success.

  • Quick solution: a full-time employee can be expensive. The hiring alone is costly, and the drafter will be on your payroll. Outsourcing the task to an external millwork drawing service is a lot more affordable.
  • Familiarity: an experienced drafter, especially one who has worked with the same millworker in the past, is more familiar with how the shop is tooled and what methods are used to fabricate custom products. The drafter’s familiarity with the shop takes away a lot of guesswork and relieves you from the otherwise obligatory research into the millwork’s production processes.
  • Less likelihood of revisions: if the millwork drawing is done by a professional drafter, there’s less likelihood of the drawing getting rejected by the designer/general contractor. Based on the information provided by the millworker, a capable drafter can easily interpret the design intent and turn it into a detailed technical drawing that precisely represents product specifications and fabrication methods.
  • Efficient manufacturing: with comprehensive drawings, the millwork shop can optimize the production workflow, leading to a faster turnaround time. Also, accurate measurement of every component prevents the shop from over-ordering materials and supplies, hence minimum waste.
  • Cost efficiency: quick approval from the designer means minimum delay. While hiring millwork drawing services is not free; your CAD drafting company still ends up saving time and money from unnecessary reworks that may bottleneck the project.

It’s all about streamlining the project. As a CAD company, you want the millwork drawings done fast by a professional who actually knows their way around the millwork shop. If it can actually save time and money, then there’s little reason not to do it.

RELATED: Hiring freelance woodworking drafting and design services: All you need to know

Effective communication

We tend to think of millwork drawings only as just some kind of technical documents you have to make in every construction project. More than that, they’re a form of communication between the designer and the millwork shop. They’re like instructions to be used by the millwork shop to fabricate custom woodwork products in accordance with the designer’s idea. Clear drawings done by professionals help avoid miscommunication and minimize project delay.

Where Cad Crowd comes in

Not every CAD drafting company has a professional for every job. Many of them specialize in 3D modeling, animated rendering, and 2D-to-3D file conversions, while others are better suited to creating complete blueprints. It makes good sense that some companies turn to independent freelancers or external design firms to cover highly specific jobs, like millwork drawings. Cad Crowd is here to help you connect with some of the most skillful drafters in the United States, with years of experience working with countless different millwork shops for big and small architectural projects.

Get a free quote today.

author avatar

MacKenzie Brown is the founder and CEO of Cad Crowd. With over 18 years of experience in launching and scaling platforms specializing in CAD services, product design, manufacturing, hardware, and software development, MacKenzie is a recognized authority in the engineering industry. Under his leadership, Cad Crowd serves esteemed clients like NASA, JPL, the U.S. Navy, and Fortune 500 companies, empowering innovators with access to high-quality design and engineering talent.

Connect with me: LinkedInXCad Crowd

AutoCAD Foundations: Building a Solid Foundation for Learning AutoCAD | AutoCAD Blog


Are you new to AutoCAD, perhaps primarily a Revit or Inventor user who works in AutoCAD occasionally, or a returning user who simply hasn’t used the product in a while? The Content Experience Designers (CXD) on the AutoCAD team have recently released a new learning series titled AutoCAD Foundations.  

AutoCAD Foundations provides you with just the right amount of information through videos and exercises to get you started on your AutoCAD learning journey. AutoCAD Foundations is learning content that can be found within the AutoCAD Online help. Here on the blog, we’re starting a new series to highlight many of the topics that you can explore with AutoCAD Foundations. 

To get the most out of AutoCAD Foundations and maximize your knowledge of AutoCAD, there are some additional resources and tools you should be aware of. These resources and tools are: 

  • Tour the AutoCAD UI video
  • Autodesk Learning videos 
  • AutoCAD online help
  • Autodesk Assistant

Read on to learn more about each.

Tour the AutoCAD UI

The AutoCAD user interface, or UI for short, can be overwhelming at first glance. While there are many different areas of the AutoCAD UI, there are three main areas to focus on and understand:

  • Ribbon and Quick Access toolbar where you can access commonly used commands and tools.
  • Drawing area where you will work on your designs and respond to prompts for input near the crosshairs.
  • Status bar which provides quick access to frequently used drafting aids.

For a walk-through of the AutoCAD UI, watch the Tour the AutoCAD UI video in the AutoCAD Online help. This video demonstrates the basic tools in the user interface.

Screenshot of AutoCAD UI

Autodesk Learning Videos

Learning AutoCAD, like many applications, is best done by seeing how it works and then putting those learnings into practice. The Autodesk website offers a large library of learning videos that demonstrate how to use many of the commands and tools in AutoCAD. This area of the website is known as Autodesk Learning. Here you can find videos on drawing and modifying objects, managing layers, plotting your designs, and much more. The video library can be filtered by product (AutoCAD in this case) and can be explored through curated lists which contain a series of short videos or course structures which offer in-depth learning sessions.

AutoCAD Online Help

As you use AutoCAD, you may need to look up information on how to use a command, what a specific user interface element does, or even the purpose of a specific option in a dialog box. The AutoCAD Online help is where you will find this information. While in AutoCAD, you can press F1 on the keyboard or click the Help button on the InfoCenter, located in the upper-right corner of the application window, to launch the in-product help window.

Displaying help with the F1 key is context-sensitive, meaning help is displayed for the active command or dialog box or based on where the mouse pointer is in the user interface. Once the in-product help window is opened, you can read the topic displayed, perform a search by keyword, or navigate to another topic using the table of contents along the left side of the window. For more information on using the AutoCAD Online help, see the Have You Tried: Tips for Using AutoCAD Help topic in the AutoCAD Online help.

Screenshot of AutoCAD Online Help

Autodesk Assistant

Along with searching for information in the AutoCAD Online help system, AutoCAD also includes the Autodesk Assistant. The Autodesk Assistant offers AI-guided self-service and options to find tailored support from within the product. Depending on the type of account you have, you can find solutions to product questions, engage in a chat with one of our product support agents, request a callback, or create a support case. With the Autodesk Assistant, you use natural language to ask questions and get responses for content that might be located within the AutoCAD Online help or the Autodesk Knowledge Base for support-related questions.

In the upper-right corner of the application window, on the InfoCenter, click Autodesk Assistant to open the Autodesk Assistant palette. With the palette open, simply type your question into the “Describe Your Question in Detail” field and press Enter to get a response. For an introduction on using the Autodesk Assistant, see the Introduction to Autodesk Assistant and AutoCAD Help topic in the AutoCAD Online help.

Screenshot of Autodesk Assistant

Get Started With AutoCAD Foundations

Start exploring AutoCAD Foundations with these resources and tools in hand. Stay tuned as we explore more AutoCAD Foundations topics in the coming weeks.

How Architects and Companies Leverage 3D CAD Technology to Develop Architectural Models


If someone told you 30 years ago that you can walk through your future house even before breaking ground, do you think you will believe them? Well, chances are you won’t. Back then, this would be considered as an out-of-your-mind, overreaching ambition. However, in this modern digital world where 3D modeling is everywhere, this is now at hands reach for you and your company. Constructors and architects can enjoy new opportunities that were mere dreams three decades ago and allow a whole new experience for your target customers.

Today, architectural visualization no longer requires physical models or blueprints to portray future projects. Architectural modeling services are made even more effective with the help of 3D because it relays and displays the concept in a better way. This leads to more engaging, more informative, and more realistic models for your consumers to interact with.


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RELATED: The power of architectural CAD services

3D architectural modeling at a first glance 

3D architectural modeling refers to the creation of a three-dimensional mathematical representation such as interior designs, exterior details, and building specifics such as visualization, construction, and its final rendering. Using 3D CAD technology for the development of architectural models allows designers to materialize projects regardless of material, scale, type, or complexity. It allows a lifelike output that you and your customers can explore before anything is spent on the materials and construction costs.

The biggest advantage of 3D architectural models is that they can accommodate both the exterior and interior of your projects. These models also make it easier to align or update some design elements or features before the start of the process. 

Benefits of 3D CAD technology for developing architectural models

Traditionally, creating designs and building plans can eat up too much of your resources, time-wise and money-wise. On top of that, the changes and updates required throughout the building process consume even more of your precious resources. This is where 3D CAD technology and CAD drafting experts swoops in and saves you a couple of thousands of bucks when developing architectural models with a considerable model with more potential and overall benefit for everyone involved.

RELATED: How the construction industry benefits from architectural visualization services

Accuracy 

3D CAD technology allows designers to achieve exact measurements of the smallest and most specific design details of the building with minimal to zero errors.

Animation

3D CAD technology gives you access to a more engaging and interesting marketing products to entice your customers with. It is used to create virtual buildings such as house tours and walkthroughs to give your clients a little glimpse into their future projects. 

Meticulous elaboration 

Using 3D technology gives you the leverage to greatly elaborate from the grand level design to the tiniest little curves and engravings that can make your project stand out.

RELATED: 5 Types of 3D visualization used by architectural design firms for CGI projects

Efficiency

3D CAD technology helps architects identify potential flaws, gain insights regarding surface patterns, and create customized interior renders. 

interior visualization services

Speed 

3D CAD technology significantly reduces the drafting and modeling time, making the 3D designers’ work more effective than ever. 

Reasons why 3D CAD technology is important for architectural model development

Here are the main reasons why 3D CAD technology is an essential tool to help architects develop architectural models. 

RELATED: How architectural design services are creating sustainable architecture

3D CAD ensures precise estimates

Measurements are inputted into the computer, and from there, the computer will perform the necessary creations and calculations for you. It helps identify any discrepancies in the measurement early on. More precision will ultimately lead to more precise initial estimates. This also cuts down the risks of making a mistake throughout the construction stage. 

The accurate estimation can also extend to quantity takeoffs. For example, when comparing two different materials, the structural integrity and price can have dramatic differences. The ability to render models with realistic representations of the strength, aesthetics, center of mass, and cost of materials helps clients reach informed decisions regarding the materials right from the start. This is where 3D architectural rendering firms proof to be invaluable.

3D CAD offers better visualization of projects

Money is always on the line in any architectural project. Executives should be won over, and investors require some impressing. 2D designs can only leave so much to the imagination that everyone might have a hard time visualizing the final result. As you try to win projects, start construction, or complete jobs, you will be in for some serious headaches in the near future if your clients can’t even visualize your design. Studies revealed that the spatial thinking skills of most untrained individuals cannot create precise 3D representations of traditional 2D sketches. 

RELATED: Why hire an architectural design service? The unmistakable benefits

3D models give everyone the chance to view the project’s full scope. 3D CAD technology can be used to create walkthroughs and pinpoint issues early on. The technology also offers excellent spatial awareness. Aside from this, CAD technology also helps you develop more than a building’s blueprints. You can also add desks, couches, chairs with 3D furniture rendering services, and other design elements that can show the future look of a finished project. 

3D CAD helps save time 

Making adjustments and changes to the design are also faster with 3D models compared to their physical counterparts. If you ever need to tweak any design element or you wish to stick to a budget, this can also be done easily. It won’t take much for you to create several versions of a single design or make adjustments accordingly. 

Types of 3D CAD technologies used to develop architectural models

There is no such thing as a single universal way of going with any kind of 3D visualization. There are several ways of covering different project times, budgets, and applications. The following are the most popular types of 3D CAD technologies used for architectural models that you should master and use for your future architectural modeling projects:

RELATED: What is architectural visualization and why architectural rendering services use it

3d interior rendering experts

3D CAD modeling 

3D designers, architects, and companies alike use 3D CAD modeling to develop 3D blueprints for just about anything, including simple houses and skyscrapers. CAD or computer-aided design uses an intricate algorithm that transforms 2D drawings into 3D designs. The mathematical precision of CAD models makes them ideal for exterior visualization. It allows designers to easily change colors, add other design elements, and implement materials. This is why CAD models are often used in different exterior rendering services. 

3D interior modeling 

Designers use 3D interior modeling to highlight the best selling points of a design and pitch their projects to investors. There are no technicalities involved as it is only about developing a gorgeous overall look of the design. This also includes creating furniture pieces, adjusting colors and lights, and placing contextual décor. With interior design being the main selling point that offers the most value, this is something worthy of being covered separately. It’s also the reason why interior rendering services are seeing a high demand right now. This also goes for exterior rendering services. 

BIM modeling 

BIM, or building information model, is the oldest form of 3D modeling. This is also among the most complex and intelligent types that let architects, constructors, and engineers work together on the same project. Using BIM modeling professionals are extremely popular in architectural modeling because it helps designers produce and edit the functional and physical features of a project. 

RELATED: Do you know the BIM best practices for architectural design firms?

Unlike other forms of architectural CGI, BIM also lets them work on the entire building as well as the interior, which includes lighting, infrastructure, spatial relations, and others. This makes BIM universal in terms of all the steps in construction and planning. 

CGI exterior modeling 

While exterior and interior designs in architectural modeling share the same principle, it is never enough that they only look gorgeous to attract more investors. The imagery shouldn’t only appear impeccable because it also needs to cover the infrastructure, optimization, and eco-friendliness aspects. 

With exterior design, convincing investors to buy the property is never enough. It is also important to make sure that the house or building is practical. Exterior 3D rendering designers should then optimize the intricate plumbing and electrical systems while visualizing the quality of materials used for them. The primary idea here is to make sure that the CGI visuals are convincing. 

RELATED: How to choose the best freelance architecture visualization services and designers

Wireframe 

If you need an effective and simple tool to make a simple design presentation, the wireframe is the best tool to use. Wireframe is generally the same as edge modeling. It involves outlining 3D objects and filling that space between the wires or lines with polygons. This is the fastest and simplest way to visualize projects in 3D. However, this can be challenging to use in high-scale and complex projects as it may become inaccurate and time-consuming. 

3D CAD technology is a certified must-have tool for architects and companies 

Now is the perfect time to jump on the 3D CAD technology bandwagon if you haven’t yet. Although 2D drawings and physical models have their merit, 3D computer-animated designs are no doubt the future. They are cheaper and more efficient. But more than this, nothing can match the capabilities of project visualization. 

RELATED: How parametric design in CAD is transforming architectural modeling design practices

You can give your clients the chance to go on virtual walkthroughs way before the start of construction. It saves you from the need to spend long hours to painstakingly measure drawings. If the client requires changes, the fix is also simple instead of several frustrating hours of reworking physical models or 2D plans. 3D CAD technology lets you meet design and cost preferences and effectively turn projects into reality.

How Cad Crowd can help

Cad Crowd is here to help you experience for yourself all the benefits of 3D CAD technology for developing architectural models so that you can get the best results as soon as possible without any time, money, and resources wasted for nothing.

Get a free quote today!

author avatar

MacKenzie Brown is the founder and CEO of Cad Crowd. With over 18 years of experience in launching and scaling platforms specializing in CAD services, product design, manufacturing, hardware, and software development, MacKenzie is a recognized authority in the engineering industry. Under his leadership, Cad Crowd serves esteemed clients like NASA, JPL, the U.S. Navy, and Fortune 500 companies, empowering innovators with access to high-quality design and engineering talent.

Connect with me: LinkedInXCad Crowd

Shop Drawing Rates, Millwork Drafting Service Costs & Finding the Right Pricing for Your Company


Millwork traditionally refers to any woodworking element produced in a sawmill from hardwood or softwood. In modern professional woodworking, however, millwork might be fabricated using not only lumber but also composite materials, particle boards, and even plastics, such as fiberglass. Although millwork is commonly associated with furniture designs and cabinetry, you might also see them on doors, sashes, fireplace mantels, and ornate moldings.

Unless an architectural project requires nothing but ready-made wood products, it needs millwork shop drawings services as a part of the construction documents to serve as the blueprints for the custom wooden components. And like every blueprint, they contain detailed visual representation of the woodwork, including materials, measurements, finishes, installation instructions, and any other design elements as specified by the client.


:rocket: Table of contents


Millwork shop drawing cost

As a rule of thumb, the cost for millwork shop drawings should not exceed roughly 5% of the woodwork itself. For example, if an interior renovation project involves $20,000 worth of millwork products, the shop drawings fee alone is likely in the $1,000 range. Keep in mind that it’s only an approximation, as the actual cost is affected by several factors, such as complexity, timeframe, and pricing structure. The most common pricing structures are as follows.

Rate per sheet

A single piece of furniture may require multiple pages of shop drawings; each page represents a specific viewing angle. In a typical custom woodworking project, you will need the following viewing angles:

Page Notes
Plan view Millwork design observed from a bird’s eye perspective.
Elevation A relatively simple two-dimensional millwork drawing seen from the front. If the back and sides have noticeably different designs from the front, they also need their own elevation view pages.
Cross-section A view of the object as if it has been cut in half vertically or horizontally. A cross-section view is important if the object has inner components, such as compartments or drawers.
Detail An additional page that highlights certain small components like hinges, locking mechanisms, hidden storage, lighting, etc.
Isometric Visual representation of the design as a three-dimensional object.

RELATED: What are redline drawing costs & CAD drafting rates for construction companies?

A non-intricate product like a rustic patio bench or a plain waterfall coffee table might not need “detail” and “cross-section” views, but a complex nightstand with multiple drawers or an L-shaped office desk can certainly use such elaborate perspectives.

The cost per millwork drawing sheet ranges from $30 to $250, depending on the company providing the quote. At the lower-end of the spectrum, chances are you’re dealing with a one-person business operating as a freelancer; if the cost per drawing is upwards of a hundred dollars, make sure the work is handled by an accredited designer or a reputable company. Of course, you can always opt for something in the middle to get a good balance between cost and quality.

shop drawings cabinet

Why choose cost per drawing structure?

Practicality is the main reason. Rate per sheet simplifies the pricing because the costs are fixed for every deliverable. With simplified pricing, the budget for the project becomes more predictable. Suppose you need three millwork drawing pages for each of five furniture pieces; if the rate is fixed at $50 per sheet, you can expect to pay exactly $750 for all the sheets. The pricing structure might also help encourage efficiency as the drafting expert may strive to get the job done faster without cutting corners in terms of quality. One possible drawback is that it usually comes with less flexible negotiation for revisions.

RELATED: Fabrication shop drawing services: all you need to know

Rate per hour

If the rate per sheet focuses on page count and deliverables, the hourly rate is entirely based on time. No matter how many sheets you need, the final cost calculation is estimated by the number of hours the drafter needs to complete the work. As with rate per sheet, however, the hourly rate varies greatly among drafters.

Someone with a full-time profession as a draftsperson might be willing to produce the drawings for around $20 per hour as a side job. On the other hand, a drafting service company with a reasonably large overhead could charge $100 or more per hour for the same amount of work. Even if the drawing quality from both of them is comparable at the end of the day, the company is likely able to send all deliverables quicker because it has multiple drafters working on the project.

Is the rate-per-hour pricing structure best?

One of the biggest advantages of an hourly rate pricing structure is flexibility. Cost directly correlates with the time spent on the tasks, so it’s ideal for projects with varying levels of complexity because the amount of work put into different drawings can fluctuate a great deal. An hourly rate is probably best in situations where the sense of urgency matters.

The decision to the pricing structure ultimately falls to the client, and there are various situations where one is better than another depending on the project specifics.

Who produces the drawings?

If you’re a client, you probably won’t lose sleep over who produces the drawings, but this is actually an important thing to know to avoid confusion in case problems arise with the design at a later date. Millwork shop drawings are officially created by the person in charge of the project, like an interior designer (but it can also be an architect or a general contractor, depending on how the project is handled). That being said, for practical reasons, they’re allowed to delegate the task to a professional draftsperson or a millworker.

There’s no set of strict rules when it comes to custom woodwork products, so the design can be as creative as possible in accordance with the client’s preference. A millwork shop drawing usually is based on ideas proposed by the interior designer, who provides general outline and specification, before it goes to millwork for further development. Next, the document goes back to the design firm for approval, so it’s collaborative work.

RELATED: Purpose of shop drawings, construction drawings, and as-built drawings for companies: All you need to know

Back and forth process

In most millwork projects, the designer only needs to produce the basic layout, geometry, and dimensions before the millworker takes the document and interprets it into a technical drawing. But just because the initial document contains only “basic” information, it doesn’t mean the designer can produce an overly rudimentary sketch, either. For instance, it needs to contain specifications for decorative hardware, types of joinery, specific hinges, certain opening and closing mechanisms, under-mount glides, side glides, whether or not the product should come with hidden compartments, etc. The designer should also mention the materials, finishes, and colors. All information must be clearly visualized in annotated drawings.

The initial drawings are fairly technical, especially when the products themselves are pretty intricate, but still not detailed enough for the designer to make all the decisions on how to approach the fabrication process. And that’s why the final millwork shop drawings should be in the domain of the millworker – and sometimes the willworker also hires a draftsperson to do the job, too. However, before the millworker can start the production, the drawings must be sent back to the designer for review and approval. The point is to make sure that the original ideas (from the designer) remain in place and that the millworker does indeed have the right tooling for the job.

It can be quite a lengthy process and will be even more so if the designer discovers a lot of things that need to be corrected. Every single change to the design intent suggested by the millworker must be first authorized by the designer. To avoid having too many discrepancies and therefore revisions, the designer or general contractor gets to choose which millworker to partner with. If you’re a client and unless there are uncommon considerations involved, the cost for millwork shop drawing is already covered in the designer’s fee.

millwork cabinet drawing

Contents of millwork shop drawing

The purpose of millwork shop drawings goes beyond outlining the specifications of the woodwork. Every sheet in the document also serves as a communication tool between shareholders to share details about materials processing, fabrication methods, and installation. To fulfill all its purposes, millwork shop drawings should at least include the following information:

  • Dimensions: measurements of the final product and all its components
  • Materials: specifications, including types and dimensions, of all materials required to build the product
  • Assembly: detailed instructions on how to bring the processed materials into the desired design
  • Finishes: the expected final outcome of the project

Shop drawings must also contain notes of comparison to the original construction documentation because even a single modification may alter the production timeline, tooling, and budget.

You cannot stress it enough: millwork shop drawings play an important role in a custom woodworking project. They contribute a great deal to project planning and minimizing errors, as they improve communication between designers, millworkers, and clients. The drawings cover everything, from material procurement to assembly/installation, and help identify mistakes even before the actual production begins to make sure that the result meets the desired specifications and expectations.

RELATED: How do companies use millwork shop drawings for 3D furniture modeling and design?

Cad Crowd and millwork shop drawings

Whether you’re an architect, a general contractor, an interior designer, a millworker, or perhaps a client planning for your next custom woodworking project, Cad Crowd connects you with experienced draftspersons to help you produce professional quality millwork shop drawings at an affordable rate. Reach out to Cad Crowd to understand how we handle the procedures for you and get your free quote at your earliest convenience.

Contact us for a free quote today.

author avatar

MacKenzie Brown is the founder and CEO of Cad Crowd. With over 18 years of experience in launching and scaling platforms specializing in CAD services, product design, manufacturing, hardware, and software development, MacKenzie is a recognized authority in the engineering industry. Under his leadership, Cad Crowd serves esteemed clients like NASA, JPL, the U.S. Navy, and Fortune 500 companies, empowering innovators with access to high-quality design and engineering talent.

Connect with me: LinkedInXCad Crowd

The Role and Benefits of CGI Rendering in Architecture: Why Service Providers and Freelancers Rely on It


Architectural CGI rendering services involve converting 3D CAD models of buildings, bridges, monuments, or structures of any sort into photorealistic images or animations. The rendering might include the exterior, the interior, the landscape, or the aerial view of the structure. Unlike traditional photography that necessitates a physical object to be captured on camera in the first place, a render artist can create lifelike visualizations of an architectural object long before construction even begins. And if you need a rendering of an existing building, you can tap into the power of 3D scanners.

The technology enables architects and engineers to create an accurate representation of a future project, helping stakeholders and clients envision the final product. Some designs and ideas can be far too complex for the average person to understand just by looking at the blueprints. This is not to say that blueprints are a bad idea; it’s just that the two-dimensional drawings are pretty technical and created mainly for general contractors and builders alike. For the vast majority of clients, on the other hand, CGI rendering is easily the most accessible way to see inside the architect’s mind. In general, photorealistic rendering is like a bridge that connects the gap between concept and reality.


🚀 Table of contents


Old vs. new methods

Before CGI technology – and therefore photorealistic rendering – existed, architects relied on manual methods to visualize their projects. Among the most commonly used manual tools included hand-drawn sketches and oil painting. Certain projects required scale models made of easily sourced materials, such as paper, wood, cardboard, glass, and metal. They took a significant amount of time to produce and were very limited in terms of details. Since they must be done manually by hand, you had to deal with the likelihood of inaccuracies in various intricate spots. The old methods are still used now, but mainly for their artistic appeal.

RELATED: Creating exterior renderings using 3D exterior rendering services for architects

3D rendering is all about automation, but certain steps require manual work, especially during the early modeling process (remember that 3D rendering doesn’t happen without 3D modeling first). The good thing is that 3D modeling is also done on a computer using CAD software, so there are still some extensive automations involved. You need an experienced modeling service to create an accurate representation of an architectural object, as it’s much more of a technical work rather than an artistic one. In other words, you don’t have to be a talented artist to build a digital 3D model, but it’s not exactly a walk in the park either. While user input plays a major factor to determine quality, the computer/software helps a lot to avoid incorrect geometries.

The same thing applies to the rendering process, although this is admittedly a little bit more artistic than modeling. The rendering alone is all automatic, but you have to configure various settings, such as lighting intensity, camera position/viewing angle, textures, etc. Post-processing is also necessary to apply colors and repair minor imperfections, like brightness and contrast.

Architectural visualization accuracy and quality are greatly improved with modern CGI technology. Architects can experiment with various designs, materials, and textures during the modeling work. They have the freedom to explore different concepts without much to lose during the process. Because everything is done on screen, they can quickly change something and see the result almost in an instant. Mind you that all the modifications must be done during the modeling. Once the model is rendered, it doesn’t offer as much flexibility because it’s an already done image. In case something doesn’t look right and just be changed, such as when the windows are too large or the flooring material is wrong, you have to modify the model first and then re-render it.

Despite the seemingly complicated workflow, expert CGI rendering is still miles better than sketches and even scale models. Apart from the clearly better-quality result, the process is more practical and flexible.

CGI winter home

RELATED: How 3D rendering enhances great architectural design presentations for companies

Why 3D rendering

Even if you took architectural CGI rendering at face value, at the very least you’d still get photorealistic imagery of a planned construction that accurately depicts the otherwise abstract concept and ideas. It’s an imagery to showcase an architect’s visions – how it should look in the real world when it’s done and what it represents. The project could be a statement of the client’s achievements, creative mind, minimalist lifestyle, taste for luxury, or everything else in between. Once the client and stakeholder see the architect’s take on the idea thanks to the realistic visualization, they’re expected to have a better collaboration in the decision-making processes.

Communication tool

With that in mind, you start to realize that architectural rendering services actually functions as an excellent communication tool. A clear, realistic, detailed visualization makes sure that the architect and the client are on the same page right from the beginning of the project. And since the rendering is supposed to be easy to understand, the client feels encouraged to provide feedback. While the architect is basically given free rein (with budget constraint, of course) over the project, the client remains the final decision maker. Any kind of constructive criticism is welcome; if some things have to be altered or modified in any form or shape, all the changes might as well happen now when the construction hasn’t even started yet. The visualization makes it easier to identify problems during the early design process.

Iterative design

As mentioned before, architectural rendering brings about design flexibility. An architectural project of any sort, even a small one, likely costs a sizable amount of money. So long as your project necessitates the involvement of an architect or general contractor, chances are the scope of work calls for a pretty big budget, like a major renovation, design overhaul, or brand-new construction rather than the likes of plumbing repair or installing a garage door. Because the project will result in permanent structural changes, you want to get the most for your money.

RELATED: Architectural illustrations vs. architectural visualization services

One way to achieve that is by implementing an iterative design approach. The process will involve some trials-and-errors, but everything happens on screen with 3D modeling and renderings. Such a flexibility opens the door to an iterative design process, where both the architect and the client combine their ideas and come up with solutions to solve both functionality and aesthetic problems. Think of it as a “measure twice and cut once” method implemented to a larger architectural scale. Taking more time in the design process to minimize risk of mistakes is better than rushing it and repairing problems later.

modern biophilic cgi

Roles in architectural project

Collaboration is a crucial element of any architectural project. Proper collaboration can only happen when all parties involved in the project, including architects, clients, and all stakeholders, have a clear understanding of the proposed design. Clarity in both design approach and architectural style is easily achievable with photorealistic rendering. You can’t expect everybody to actively collaborate with each other if they don’t have a good grasp of the design to begin with. And when all discussions and feedback revolve around the same straightforward visualization, you also reduce the risk of miscommunication.

Involvement in design process

A lot of people seem to think that a CGI rendering is always a visualization of the final product. While this is true in many cases, a rendering might actually serve as a starting point of a design process. You can treat it merely as a concept, and proceed to have a brainstorming session with clients, architects, and all stakeholders to materialize and improve the design. The clients feel at ease proposing ideas, requesting changes, and articulating their perspectives because they have the visualization to facilitate communication. If you manage to have the clients involved in the design process, you can run the project with much better confidence.

Streamlined workflow

With architectural visualization services as a communication tool, the project workflow becomes much more streamlined as well. You don’t have to spend too much time on asking for revisions and approval with every subsequent change in design. The visualization can cover every single aspect of the project, from the overall exterior to tiny little components in HVAC and solar panels. If the early discussion is executed properly, it’s not impossible to get an agreement on all design elements – along with the approvals – before the construction. This kind of efficiency keeps the project on schedule and within budget.

RELATED: Best practices for architecture firms: residential and commercial architectural site planning

What it does to freelancers and service providers

Freelancing is on the rise all across the United States. Over the last decade or so, the number of workers who freelance (either full-time or part-time) has grown from around 53 million in 2014 to 64 million in 2023, representing 38% of the entire American workforce, according to a Freelance Forward Research Report (published in December 2023) by Upwork. The COVID-19 pandemic did have something to do with that growth; in fact, there was a 22% increase in the United States in 2019 alone. Half of those freelancers consider the work style a long-term career path, not a temporary choice.

The numbers represent all freelancers of all industries, not only those who work in the architectural sector. But there’s no doubt that architects (or the architectural sector at large) have embraced freelancers to a degree. On some of the most popular freelancing sites, there are hundreds of professionals offering all kinds of architectural services, including but not limited to interior designs, floor plan drafting, 3D modeling, and of course, rendering.

building and school road cgi

Based on a Firm Survey Report (2020) by AIA (American Institute of Architects), over 25% of approximately 19,000 member-owned architecture firms were sole practitioners, meaning they’re effectively running a freelance business model. Not every freelancer is an independent/individual professional, as many services are actually procured by architectural firms big and small. Among the most common types of services provided by those firms are architectural illustration, 3D modeling, and 3D rendering – this makes sense because modeling and rendering can be pretty resource-demanding in terms of computational power.

With all the benefits of 3D rendering, however, architectural service providers and freelancers will always use CGI visualization to assist with whatever projects they do. As a matter of fact, they rely on 3D rendering to propel efficiency, especially if they have to work off-site (remotely), during the early phase of the project. The good-old familiar adage “a picture is worth a thousand words” is played to its full potential here. Freelancers, whether architects or designers, are able to communicate their ideas, no matter how complex, in the most efficient manner possible using visualizations.

How Cad Crowd can help

The future of 3D rendering is bright. Here at Cad Crowd, we have thousands of talented freelance 3D modelers and render artists to help you create the most convincingly realistic architectural visualizations, either static or animated, using the latest CGI technologies, including Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR).

Give Cad Crowd a call today to get your free quote.

author avatar

MacKenzie Brown is the founder and CEO of Cad Crowd. With over 18 years of experience in launching and scaling platforms specializing in CAD services, product design, manufacturing, hardware, and software development, MacKenzie is a recognized authority in the engineering industry. Under his leadership, Cad Crowd serves esteemed clients like NASA, JPL, the U.S. Navy, and Fortune 500 companies, empowering innovators with access to high-quality design and engineering talent.

Connect with me: LinkedInXCad Crowd

Important Benefits of Public Transportation Train Station 3D Renderings for Companies and Firms


With the cost of quality public transportation and train station 3D renderings services getting more affordable these days, the perks and use cases of this powerful form and tool of communication have also increased. The following are some benefits of public transportation train station 3D renderings for companies and firms in different stages of the project.


:rocket: Table of contents


Benefits of 3D renderings  for the planning stage

1.  Alternative analysis

From the earliest phases of a project, stakeholders must grasp and understand the available alternatives and concepts. 3D visualization services can help clearly and quickly explain various alternatives to those who have a vested interest in the project.

2.  Communication with all stakeholders

Although design and similar technical documents are often made for construction or engineering personnel, 3D renderings are created for everyone regardless of background. They can clearly illustrate complex designs to make them understandable for anyone, including the legal, political, and financial team members, as well as the general public.

RELATED: All you need to know about interior and exterior 3D commercial rendering services

3.  Long term planning

It is common to break down large projects into a few phases over several years. Various printouts of a quality 3D rendering or a phasing animation from 3D rendering firms can give a clear presentation of the process, even if the project lasts for decades.

4.  Presentation for requests for funds

Transportation and other projects are often worth millions and even billions of dollars at times. With such figures, it won’t be too much to say that the stakes are high. Presenting alternatives or early concepts for funding requests with precise 3D renderings can quickly convey the idea while reducing the possibility of misunderstandings.

5.  Public feedback

Different phases of the project usually involve public feedback. Opting for 3D renderings instead of simple ages can change the involvement of the public in the project, turning them from enemies into allies.

RELATED: 3D visualization for bars, businesses, and restaurants: 3D interior rendering services 

6.  Stakeholder input

Stakeholders from various disciplines can give their feedback during the planning stages. Using 3D photorealistic rendering designers to draft renderings for meetings can make everyone involved quickly explain and point out their project vision without leaving anything to mere imagination.

3d architectural visualization experts

Benefits of 3D renderings for the design stage

7.  Integration of aesthetics with current conditions

Artistic detailing and aesthetic considerations from years ago can clash against newer and more contemporary designs. 3D renderings can provide a quick comparison of the appearance of the latest design among the existing aesthetic details.

8.  Aesthetics

It’s not just desirable to ensure that a project looks good because it is often required, with a specific part of the budget allotted, particularly for aesthetics. It can affect most people who are part of the project’s design, from landscape architects to roadway designers. 3D rendering designers make it easier to envision and coordinate aesthetics.

RELATED: Better 3D rendering and retail store design services for commercial spaces

9.  Bridge aesthetics

Bridges are among the most critical categories of any public transportation project because they require a substantial chunk of the budget in both construction and design. Trying different designs, materials, and artistic details with 3D renderings can guarantee that the correct option will be selected for the budget and location of the project in question.

10.   Line of sight

Another important aspect of public transportation design is line of sight, and 3D renderings can help transform the process from cutting 2D cross sections to instantly showing exactly what drivers will see from any part of the project.

11.   Marquee location

Public transportation and train station projects usually include huge marquee signs to welcome visitors to places and key locations or destinations. Using 3D architectural visualization services to create accurate 3D renderings can ensure that the correct location will be chosen and stakeholders will give their approval before the start of the actual construction.

RELATED: 3 Advantages of using 3D rendering services for city planning and development

12.   Pedestrian experience

During public transportation projects, it is common to pay close attention to the driver experience. However, even the smallest redesign can affect pedestrians equally. Showing the projects with pedestrians around and on the location, as well as 3D renderings from the perspective of pedestrians, can boost the engagement and excitement of those who might not always be in a car while around the site. This also applies to bicycle riders, who are now starting to become a growing segment of the demographics of modern commuters.

13.   Scenic view study

Public transportation projects may include a particular area allotted as a scenic view now and then. 3D renderings from 3D architectural animators can help pick the best location for these scenic views and show how they will look upon completion. This comes in handy for places that might not yet be accessible, such as those located deep into a forest that will soon be cut for a part of the roadway or railway.

14.   Sign Placement

Numerous factors affect the placement of signs, such as vegetation, structure locations, and clear zone distances. 3D renderings can help the process by visually checking the best spots for sign placement, specifically for major signs.

RELATED:  How 3D virtual reality rendering is shaping the construction industry

urban planning and design services
urban planning and design services

15.   Solar or shade studies

Public transportation projects not only change views or commutes because they can also shine where it doesn’t. Conducting a solar study can help show where the changes take place and how these might or might not affect those near or within the project’s boundaries.

16.   Utility conflict

Conflicts between an existing utility, such as a water main or high-pressure gas line, and a public transportation project can make or break its budget. Coming to the meeting with a utility company prepared and armed with 3D renderings can help communicate the problem right away, paving the way for the discussion of alternatives without any misunderstanding or confusion.

Benefits for the construction stage

17.   Advertisements 

Sometimes, after the contractor has completed a job, it’s not easy to prove why they were suitable for the job. 3D renderings can showcase the unique methods they used. These tools can also be useful for ads on their website and trade publications.

RELATED: How the construction industry benefits from architectural visualization services

18.   Construction animation 

Showcasing all or just some parts of a public transportation project in 3D renderings can sometimes convey even the most confusing concepts. For instance, using 3D renders from expert 3D construction rendering professionals to show the correct installation of soil nail walls will ensure that new members of the construction team will be familiar with the concept before the start of the project.

19.   Construction phasing 

3D renderings of construction phasing can help contractors snag more projects and help in their management. A meeting with 3D renderings that showcase the sequencing of the project will quickly demonstrate the whole process instead of a tedious meeting that goes on for hours using sketches and images. 

20.   Project coordination 

Engineers, project managers, operators, workers, and hundreds of other members must be on the same page during a construction project. While meetings are the most popular approach to address this issue, 3D renderings can simplify the approach further.

RELATED: Urban planning and freelance CAD design services cost, rates, and pricing for companies?

21.   Public outreach 

One of the contractors’ obligations is to communicate the project’s progress to the general public. It is often done through websites, statements, or media personnel. Precise 3D renderings from 3D commercial rendering designers can make the whole process so much easier.

22.   Safety videos 

3D renderings can show why and how safety procedures are implemented, either for a specific project or in general. Depending on the specific use case, these can often be done faster and cheaper than simple videos.

23.   Traffic control phasing 

Many public transportation and train station projects require some kind of traffic control. It might be among the most frustrating aspects of a project, even more so from the public’s perspective. A traffic control 3D rendering can prepare commuters and address misconceptions regarding the project.

RELATED: How architectural design services are creating sustainable architecture

24.   Utility discovery 

Billions are lost every year because of construction accidents. However, 3D renderings can help mitigate these losses with the help of CAD files, as-built drawing services, and below-ground scans. Many construction equipment today even use built-in 3D renderings.

25.   Vendor-to-contractor communication 

A specialty vendor implements most of the elements of a public transportation project. These vendors can demonstrate the benefits or usefulness of their products by developing 3D visualization visuals and diagrams. These could range from new traffic signal designs to clever MSE wall panels.

26.   Winning work 

Any contractor knows that the main difference between not winning and winning a job often calls for creative approaches in proposals. Today, it seems that an increasing number of contractors are using 3D renderings made specifically to win more projects, and this trend will most likely continue well into the future.

RELATED: How various companies and industries embrace 3D rendering services and applications 

The bottom line

Public transportation and train station 3D renderings are revolutionizing the construction and design of public transportation hubs. These tools improve communication and visualization, save costs, and efficiently plan space. As urban areas continue to grow and with the increased demand for efficient public transportation and trains, rendering technologies and urban and design services will continue to play a more significant role in developing architecturally impressive stations that are also highly accessible, user-friendly, and functional.

How Cad Crowd can help

Cad Crowd is the best resource for reliable providers of public transportation and train station 3D renderings for companies and firms of all sizes.

Get a free quote today!

author avatar

MacKenzie Brown is the founder and CEO of Cad Crowd. With over 18 years of experience in launching and scaling platforms specializing in CAD services, product design, manufacturing, hardware, and software development, MacKenzie is a recognized authority in the engineering industry. Under his leadership, Cad Crowd serves esteemed clients like NASA, JPL, the U.S. Navy, and Fortune 500 companies, empowering innovators with access to high-quality design and engineering talent.

Connect with me: LinkedInXCad Crowd

How to Create Captivating 3D Commercial Rendering Architecture Designs for Companies


Commercial architectural projects like offices, retail spaces, restaurants, and hotels require remarkably interesting and engaging presentations to win the hearts of your investors. This is where 3D commercial rendering truly shines as it enters the picture. Using 3D commercial rendering services, designers and architects are able to translate ideas into visuals that can help stakeholders visualize the finished projects envisioned by the designers.

Unfortunately, a simple model of a structure or building alone is not as impressive as the actual thing and may not be enough to sweep investors off their feet. Lifelike 3D commercial rendering can be a true lifesaver in this case, provided that you do it right. This article discusses how to create captivating 3D commercial rendering architecture designs for companies.


:rocket: Table of contents


RELATED: Best practices for architecture firms: residential and commercial architectural site planning

How to create captivating 3D commercial rendering architecture designs for companies

Clarify the final version of the project 

Ideas will flood right from the start of any project from architects, clients, and other professionals in the construction industry. A few factors must also be considered to ensure that the client’s ideas and concepts are transformed into reality at the most affordable price. However, the digital version of the final product should already be available before construction begins to serve as a guide both to you and your clients regarding the progress and expected outcome of the project.

3D commercial rendering architecture designs can translate concepts into photorealistic animations and images of the finished project. If these animations and pictures are accurate, risk of problems can be greatly reduced and future mistakes can be taken care of even before they turn into actual errors in your projects. Thus, a project can only begin after the client approves the 3D designer’s finished project’s 3D renderings. Every professional involved in the project will also know what to expect once the project officially begins. 

Be familiar with different types of 3D rendering 

It’s highly recommended that you become familiar with the different types of 3D rendering while working on commercial architectural projects to make your presentations more captivating. For starters, exterior and interior renderings alike are necessary to showcase your design in all its glory. Other popular types of 3D rendering, including virtual reality or 3D animation services, can also offer more unique experiences.

RELATED: Why 3D rendering and retail store design services for commercial spaces are important

3D animations, for instance, can allow the audience to go on architectural flythroughs or walkthroughs or emphasize the functionality of specific features. VR offers clients the opportunity to have fully immersive experiences, while dollhouse rendering provides an informative and distinct view that presents the interior and exterior in a single image. 

Emphasize the benefits

Focusing on your design’s specific benefits can make your 3D commercial rendering architecture designs more effective. This is how you can communicate the true value of your commercial project. Consider a mountain resort rendering, for example. A kid’s playground may take center stage here. This will make your audience see the place as family-friendly, which is great for people who wish to spend time with their families on a relaxing weekend.

commercial interior rendering firm

Similarly, a 3D rendering for a commercial office can highlight the cozy and spacious lounge or lobby. This will convey a message about the building being a pleasant and functional workplace. Always highlight your commercial design’s extra perks and features in your 3D rendering. 

RELATED: All you need to know about interior and exterior 3D commercial rendering services

Set the stage

As far as 3D commercial rendering architecture designs are concerned, it’s critical for the 3D architectural rendering expert to choose the correct setting. This can significantly impact your project’s overall look and feel since it can influence the investor’s final opinion. Be sure to consider your project’s style and purpose and select a setting that best complements it. 

Light it up 

Lighting has a critical role to play in setting the mood and tone of your 3D commercial rendering architecture designs. Different lighting scenarios convey various facets of the project as well. For example, they can help clients envision how the structure will look under different weather conditions and at different times of the day. A daylight rendering, for instance, can help the audience appreciate the building’s design and every detail of its surroundings.

On the other hand, a magical-looking nighttime rendering from an experienced commercial architectural design expert can highlight the perfectly executed exterior lighting with the city’s night atmosphere in the backdrop. When planning your 3D commercial rendering designs, you must be extra mindful of the color and type of lighting, as well as its intensity and direction. Warm lighting, for example, can exude an inviting and cozy ambiance, while cold lighting can evoke a sleeker and more contemporary feel. 

RELATED: Better 3D rendering and retail store design services for commercial spaces

Plan and communicate the layout of the site

A detailed and proper site layout is vital for all projects since this presents the connection between the proposed project and its boundary which includes nearby roads and neighboring properties. Accurate planning and communication of the site layout will allow construction professionals to determine the precise location of all property elements and map out the construction process to prevent errors. 

3D commercial rendering architecture designs can outline and communicate the relation placement of rooms, furniture pieces, landscape elements, decorations, and utilities to construction professionals with the help of photorealistic rendering services, animations, or images. They can also ask questions and spell out any vague aspect of the project. This results in the quick and accurate progress of all construction activities. 

Add people 

Like residential projects, it can also be very decisive to feature people in your 3D commercial rendering designs. Doing so lets you improve the appeal and realism of your project while helping the audience envision its functionality. When showcasing a hotel concept, for example, having a person manning the reception desk will convey a welcoming and warm atmosphere.

RELATED: Essential benefits of 3D architectural rendering and design for companies, restaurants & bars 

Showing servers and diners on a terrace, on the other hand, can also allow clients to visualize the space and how it works in real life. Remember that nothing is better than the 3D architectural visualization firm including human figures in a space to help your viewers understand its scale. 

architectural rendering specialists

Review designs and identify flaws

With 2D models and drawings, it can be very tricky to identify flaws in the design because of the limited insights they offer. However, you can solve this challenge with the help of 3D commercial rendering architecture designs because they offer more insights to pinpoint errors in the design that are simply impossible with 2D models and drawings. This saves construction professionals and clients from needing to change things once construction work starts.

Reviewing designs is also made easy with 3D commercial rendering and visualization. Designs can be sent remotely, and requests for feedback, for instance. You can then use the input you received to identify potential issues in the design, make various design options, improve the design further, or develop some updates. 

RELATED: Real estate marketing: what are the advantages of 3D architectural rendering services & animation?

Highlight the amenities 

The key to capturing the attention and interest of clients and conveying the project’s unique features is to showcase the full details of the best amenities. For instance, in a 3D hotel rendering, you can highlight the breathtaking view from a rooftop terrace. This will convey that the hotel offers a lavish and distinct experience. Focusing on features like outdoor dining, fire pits, and lounge areas can make the space look and feel more appealing. Meanwhile, an office or restaurant rendering can showcase design elements like state-of-the-art features or art installations. This will let you show that the space is truly distinct and unforgettable. 

Use aerial view for large-scale projects 

Aerial views can be very effective in showcasing the complexity and scale of bigger commercial projects, such as office complexes, shopping malls, or hotels. Aerial rendering offers a bird’s-eye view of the whole site to help the audience envision the layout. Aerial 3D commercial rendering designs also allow the audience to understand how the project works functionally and visually with its nearby surroundings, including the parks, highways, or roads, and how it will fit into the bigger natural or urban landscape. 

Take advantage of close-up shots

Close-up shots can be very powerful tools for conveying the mood in both the exterior and interior 3D commercial rendering designs. This kind of shot can help convey the vibe and intricacies of your design by emphasizing specific elements like design features, materials, or textures. A close-up 3D rendering can also express a certain atmosphere or mood, such as the inviting and warm ambiance of a cozy restaurant or the modern and sleek vibe of a state-of-the-art office space.

RELATED: Why are companies and firms moving from 2D to 3D CAD architectural renderings and models? 

These close-up shots can help the audience imagine how it feels to be in the space before the place exists in real life. This can be done by focusing on certain elements that shape the overall ambiance and mood of the area. Having said all this, it’s safe to say that creating captivating 3D commercial rendering architecture designs for companies depends on various aspects, from creative to technical. 

How Cad Crowd can help 

Hopefully, this article gave you valuable insights about 3D commercial rendering. However, if you still have no idea how to present your next commercial designs in the best light possible, don’t hesitate to contact Cad Crowd. 

We can help you search for the right solutions that will match or even go beyond your expectations. Contact us now for a free quote

author avatar

MacKenzie Brown is the founder and CEO of Cad Crowd. With over 18 years of experience in launching and scaling platforms specializing in CAD services, product design, manufacturing, hardware, and software development, MacKenzie is a recognized authority in the engineering industry. Under his leadership, Cad Crowd serves esteemed clients like NASA, JPL, the U.S. Navy, and Fortune 500 companies, empowering innovators with access to high-quality design and engineering talent.

Connect with me: LinkedInXCad Crowd

3D Pool Rendering: Creative 3D Swimming Pool Design Ideas from a Leading Company


The best thing about 3D rendering services is that you get to see how the swimming pool should look, even before construction begins. Modern CAD technology allows you to design everything in a virtual space where you can build, make changes, and basically fine tune the plan on a computer screen. Rendering does cost money, but it helps you avoid potential costly mistakes during the construction. You can consider it a three-dimensional photorealistic blueprint but without all the confusing technical construction annotations.


🚀 Table of contents


Swimming pool 3D rendering

Photorealistic rendering is a WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) construction document digitally drawn to scale, so you get a clear idea of what the final outcome will be early on in the project. To make the rendering as accurate as possible, it has to go through several steps:

1. Concept: the process starts with some simple sketches on paper to determine basic specifications such as shape, dimensions, materials, and location relative to the house or main building. If there needs to be structures around the swimming pool, like glass enclosure, deck, furniture, and decorative elements, they should be included and detailed in the sketch as well. The sketch will have to go through one or two refinements before everything is ready for digital drawing.

2. Modeling: the render artist begins creating 3D models of all objects in the pool and the surrounding landscape. If the pool is close enough to the main building, a small part of it might be included in the modeling to put everything to scale.

3. Detailing: once the modeling is done, it’s time to put more details into each object. The process may involve adding colors, textures, lighting, and shadows.

4. Water simulation: one of the most challenging parts of 3D rendering is creating photorealistic water. Most render artists use specific drafting services to generate depth, transparency, reflection, and the illusion of motion on the surface.

5. Lights and shadows: the viewing angle along with light direction determines the shadow. Since the rendering also involves water, there should be some refractions as well. Shadows on the water surface should be different from those on hard surfaces, too.

6. Rendering: the actual rendering task is done by the computer, but the artist still needs to configure a few settings like the resolution and output format.

7. Post-processing: once the rendering is done, post-processing helps improve fine details such as brightness, saturation, contrast, and specific effects.

Swimming pool 3D rendering costs between $500 to $1500. Keep in mind that the rendering fee has nothing to do with how much the actual swimming pool will cost you.

RELATED: Creating exterior renderings using 3D exterior rendering services for architects

architectural plan for a pool design for an existing home

Types of swimming pool

A swimming pool is a striking home improvement element. It comes in plenty of different sizes, shapes, and styles, but sometimes more options make it even harder to make the right choice. You have many things to consider, from functions and maintenance to design and complexity. But one thing is certain: a swimming pool is not cheap. Pool design services don’t have to be expensive, however.

In-ground

A multi-use recreational swimming pool is often a standard feature in a luxury house. In some real estate markets, such as the Sun Belt region in the US (stretching from Virginia and Florida in the southeast through Nevada and southern California in the southwest), an in-ground pool – or any type of swimming pool, for that matter – is pretty commonplace in middle-class neighborhoods as well. Even if you’re not overly keen to swim, the feature will come out as an excellent investment that brings a significant addition to the property’s long-term value. And if you do find swimming enjoyable, an in-ground swimming pool requires regular maintenance, at least several hours a week for cleaning.

Above ground

Soft-sided and hard-sided options are available for above-ground swimming pools. And if you add a frame around the outside walls or elevated deck, the final outcome is barely distinguishable from the in-ground type. Pool designers use the soft-sided option allows you to disassemble the entire structure in case you need the extra space or during cold winter. Reassembly is relatively easy for DIYers, but then again, you may come across some difficulties when the structure is poorly built in the first place due to clumsy planning. Compared to the in-ground type, an above-ground swimming pool is a much more affordable investment and easier to maintain.

RELATED: Architectural illustrations vs. architectural visualization services

Lap pool

Most lap pools are built as an in-ground type, but there are also above-ground variants installed as either permanent or non-permanent structures. The ideal size for a lap pool is anywhere from 45 ft. to 75 ft. long; the standard Olympic-sized length is 164 ft. As for the depth, it usually has three levels: 3 ft. at the shallow end (for entrance), 4 ft. in the middle, and 5 ft. at the other end. While the entrance seems suitable for children, a lap pool is intended only for workout use without additional elements like water slides or diving boards. A lap pool is long, narrow, and shallow. It’s constructed in a rectangular shape, making it an ideal option for a small backyard area because it doesn’t take up too much space. The installation of an in-ground lap pool with the aforementioned size costs around $45,000. But if you’re looking for a store-bought above-ground type, expect to pay around $10,000, including labor.

Indoor pool

If budget is not a concern, an indoor pool is a no-brainer. As the name suggests, the swimming pool is located inside – therefore not exposed to the outside environment – and under a roof for better privacy and cleanliness. An indoor pool is usually in-ground and built for swimming exercises throughout the year rather than being part of a playground. Think of it as a fancier and larger version of a lap pool kept safe from the elements. When installed outside the main building (such as in a backyard), freelance pool designers will often cover it with a glass enclosure; if you have enough space, you can even have the pool and enclosure constructed as a detached structure. Whether the shape is rectangular, circular, oval, semi-circle, or any other geometry you find pleasing and complementing the architectural style, an indoor pool is a true statement of taste and style.

indoor pool example

RELATED: Best practices for architecture firms: Residential and commercial architectural site planning

Infinity edge pool

At least one side of an infinity pool is set below the water level with an out-of-sight skimmer tray. The edge is designed in such a way that it looks as if the pool blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. Done right, the water at the edge of the pool gives the illusion that it falls over the wall, just like a small waterfall, although you don’t exactly hear the sound of rumbling water. Infinity pool is a common feature in luxury homes located on hilltops or near the ocean. It’s always custom-built as part of the house blueprint and intended to highlight the view.

Spool

A blend of spa and pool, a spool is larger than a spa yet smaller compared to a typical pool. You can’t swim in it, although some spools have directional jets with adjustable power for the purpose. But most spools are built for relaxation – a place where you can soak comfortably with friends after a hectic day. Spools are usually an in-ground affair constructed from poured concrete, but there are also ready-made models installed with elevated decks. You can almost say that spools are oversized hot tubs. Some of the fancier models feature full temperature control, insulated cover, LED lighting, and a filtration system.

Note: if your spool turns out to be quite large, it may fall under the full-size swimming category according to the local building code. You may need to install protective fencing to meet the code requirements.

Plunge pool

Often an addition to an already existing in-ground swimming pool instead of a stand-alone feature, a plunge pool is not designed for swimming. It’s relatively small (about 10 x 15 ft.) and shallow at around 6 ft. Although it looks like an ordinary spa, the water inside the pool is intentionally kept cold to help you cool down and relax after an intense exercise. But just because plunge pools are small and shallow, it doesn’t mean they’re cheap. Installation may cost between $15,000 and upward of $20,000.

Natural pool

No, this is not a pool that naturally takes shape on your property, but an artificial pool designed to appear as if it has already been there for many years. It’s built as part of the landscaping and therefore equipped with a regeneration zone for an organic cleaning system. Since this is intended to serve as landscape appeal, the pool is not used for swimming. Even if you want to swim in it, you probably won’t have an enjoyable experience due to the shallow depth. Depending on the size, a plain natural pool is likely more affordable than an in-ground swimming pool, although you might spend more on styling elements such as small streams/waterfalls, boulders, and aquatic plant life.

RELATED: Architectural design services costs: All you need to know

Architectural pool

The name says it all: an architectural pool is built to complement the design of the main building. The structure, materials, colors, and shape must be carefully selected to create a cohesive look. It might be an addition to an existing structure, but most are built as part of the house plan and designed by an architect. While it’s always a stand-out feature, an architectural pool should create the impression that it blends seamlessly with the main building as if each is an inseparable part of the other. If you’re building an architectural pool as part of a renovation, the cost can be more expensive than the house itself. Maintenance is just about the same as a regular in-ground type.

How Cad Crowd can help

A swimming pool is not a small investment, but proper planning and detailed 3D rendering can help you make sure that it is worth every penny you spend. Cad Crowd is home to professional render artists offering flexible solutions and customizations to meet even your most diverse requirements. Get in touch with Cad Crowd to get your free quote, and you can expect nothing but the best working with the best in the industry.

author avatar

MacKenzie Brown is the founder and CEO of Cad Crowd. With over 18 years of experience in launching and scaling platforms specializing in CAD services, product design, manufacturing, hardware, and software development, MacKenzie is a recognized authority in the engineering industry. Under his leadership, Cad Crowd serves esteemed clients like NASA, JPL, the U.S. Navy, and Fortune 500 companies, empowering innovators with access to high-quality design and engineering talent.

Connect with me: LinkedInXCad Crowd

Reduce Product Design Costs Without Sacrificing Quality with Insights from Engineering Firms


Much of the budget for developing a new product for companies goes to the design phase. From the early stage of brainstorming to the final production-ready prototype, you can spend thousands of dollars to build and revise a design; and that’s for a relatively simple, non-electronic product, like a cookware or a backpack. Anything more complicated, such as Bluetooth radio or remote control, will cost you tenfold or more. Designing a product is not cheap, but it doesn’t always mean you can’t keep it to a minimum. The thing is, you have to keep it at near-perfect efficiency every step of the way. For a lot of small companies and startups, the most practical way to achieve that is by working with an engineering firm.

And to be even more specific, the engineering firm has to have at least one professional industrial designer on the team. According to the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics), an industrial designer devises an efficient system where workers, machines, materials, energy, and information may work together in harmony to make products or provide services. In other words, the work of an industrial designer focuses on coordinating all factors involved in production to achieve maximum efficiency – or reducing cost whenever possible – without sacrificing quality. Quite a mouthful indeed, but you get the idea nonetheless.

Mind you that most industrial designers typically have at least a bachelor’s degree in engineering, architecture, and fine arts. The vast majority of design programs include multiple courses in CADD (computer-aided design and drafting), 3D modeling, business, industrial processes, manufacturing methods, and drawing, among others. This is where you need to practice some due diligence; not every engineering firm has an industrial designer as part of its core team. An engineering firm that specializes in architectural design would prefer hiring a Bachelor of Architecture rather than a Bachelor of Engineering. And as you would expect, you want to work with a firm loaded with professionals of the latter category.

RELATED: Important benefits of industrial product design – using industrial product design services 

mountainboard outsourced

Note: BLS’ list of occupations can be pretty confusing, but not necessarily inaccurate, at times. For example, the bureau makes a distinction between industrial designers and industrial engineers. They are all engineers, and share similar functions within an organization. Some firms hire both, because their roles are often interchangeable. Industrial designers focus on developing new products or improving the existing ones, whereas industrial engineers hone in on creating efficient manufacturing methods.

To give you an idea of why or how industrial designers can be the defining factor in your design decision, let’s take a look at their typical roles and responsibilities in an industrial engineering firm:

  • Determine the requirements and parameters for product designs
  • Conduct research into how a product might be used and who might use it
  • Create product sketches (or CAD modeling) as visualization of design ideas
  • Produce multiple photorealistic renderings of product designs
  • Create physical prototypes
  • Examine manufacturing requirements, including materials and workforce, to determine production cost
  • Collaborate with other specialists, such as prototype makers, electrical engineers, and manufacturers to evaluate designs
  • Determine whether the materials and manufacturing process can come at a reasonable cost
  • Analyze product safety, function, aesthetics, ergonomics, and general user-friendliness
  • Present product design ideas to stakeholders/clients for approval

An engineering firm doesn’t usually mention if it specializes in any specific product category, but the industrial designers in the firm usually do. It makes perfect sense for the firm to avoid making explicit reference to the matter because there might be multiple industrial designers, each with a different specialization, working in the organization. Some of them are perhaps put in charge of a medical equipment project or home appliances, while others develop ideas for sporting goods, housewares, furniture, jewelry, and so on.

RELATED: Why companies use product design sketches during new product development and design

Regardless of the product category, industrial designers work to minimize the use of resources (which may include energy, workforce, materials, etc.) to reduce production costs as much as possible while still aiming for the best results. Their main duty in an engineering firm is to circumvent design constraints by either mitigating risks of design failures (such as removing unnecessary elements) or using them as advantages to execute minimalist design approaches.

When developing a product, industrial designers take into account how consumers might use the product and test different designs to see how each iteration looks and works. They need to figure out an effective balance between good aesthetics, functionality, durability, and overall ease of use. However, the most important thing of them all is often the target consumers’ purchasing power. It makes little sense for companies to build the greatest product ever, if it ends up being too expensive for its intended buyers. For instance, a tech development company can probably release a high-performance laptop series any day of the week, but if the product is meant to fill the market for high school students with a purchasing power of $1,000 or less, well then there’s definitely something very wrong in the design and marketing aspects of the project.

Every product is intended to fill a market gap. You can also say that a product exists because there’s a demand for it. And the market is segmented by – once again – purchasing power. Each segment contains distinct demographics, priorities, and interests. Product design services are often determined by which segment you’re targeting. You come up with a product that fills specific needs for certain groups of people. This is the main reason companies offer different product tiers. Let’s just say “good” sits at the bottom, followed by “better” in the second place, but both are under the “best” tier. Now if we refer back to our laptop example above, the “student” variant is likely the good option, whereas the business model is a step above, before finally you arrive at the high-end version at the top.

You might think that an engineering firm only does engineering stuff, and you might be right, but not entirely accurate. Industrial designers do not develop a new product design from nothing. They work with other professionals in the firm, such as manufacturing experts, market analysts, and even other engineers. An engineering firm does primarily design a product based on your specifications, but it also provides a range of other services to ensure that the end-product is profitable for your company.

3d apartment living room outsourced

Besides offering the full range of industrial designer services as mentioned earlier, an engineering firm also performs thorough market research on your behalf. The firm typically uses various tools such as phone interviews, focus groups, questionnaires, and surveys to figure out potential buyers’ preferences and purchase history. Market research also helps determine the product’s appeal to the target demographics, existing competitors along with their price points, and trends. While it might not directly provide ideas as to how the product should be physically shaped, the data gathered from such a research give invaluable insights into the design decisions and where to position the product in the market. Some analysts also use data available from external sources, such as census and economic reports.

RELATED: How-to guide: new product design, engineering and prototyping your idea for mass manufacturing

This is how you gain a basic understanding of what products people want and at what price. Combine those insights with industrial designer’s expertise, and you get the right formula to plan for a design and aim for the desired profit margin.

Product design cost

Before you get to the final version of a product, you need to go through a lo t of different steps from ideation to evaluation, which may include safety certification, depending on the type of product. In the old days, prototyping was one of the most expensive design steps. When you work with a modern prototyping firm, almost every single design process is done on 3D CAD modeling software. Think of it as a “virtual prototyping” to test and analyze dozens or more design ideas on a computer screen.

While a physical prototype remains necessary, you won’t likely need it until you get to the final pre-production prototype iteration. Everything else before that is easily accessible and modifiable on the software. 3D modeling enables industrial designers to experiment with countless design iterations in a digital environment, where they can make use of all kinds of shapes, materials, mechanical components, colors, textures, and dimensions as needed. They can make adjustments with only a few clicks, and let the software do the rest. Whether you want to change the geometry, add/remove design elements, or reposition parts, the software can do everything for you almost in an instant. In case something doesn’t work, you can revert the changes or modify something else.

Let’s not forget that you see the design (on the screen) as a three-dimensional object. If your product is supposed to have some moving parts, or mechanical components if you like, the software can animate the model to help you see the product in action. Some programs even allow for full-fledged simulation for FEA, load cases, etc. In general, 3D CAD modeling and simulation software removes the need for physical prototype analysis. Another good thing about advanced CAD software is that you can configure it to calculate the cost of materials based on the model. It’s also easy to replace one material with another to see the difference in production cost. And because it’s automatic, the likelihood of inaccuracy is virtually zero.

RELATED: New product development and design: should your company work with a product design team?

FEA Girder for outsourcing

How Cad Crowd can help

For more than 15 years, Cad Crowd has been working to connect companies, big and small, as well as startups and individual clients with some of the most reputable engineering firms in the country. Whether you plan to create an electronic product, furniture, home appliances, hi-tech drones and everything else in between, Cad Crowd has just the right engineering firms to optimize your design process efficiency.

Get a free quote to create the most engaging products today.

author avatar

MacKenzie Brown is the founder and CEO of Cad Crowd. With over 18 years of experience in launching and scaling platforms specializing in CAD services, product design, manufacturing, hardware, and software development, MacKenzie is a recognized authority in the engineering industry. Under his leadership, Cad Crowd serves esteemed clients like NASA, JPL, the U.S. Navy, and Fortune 500 companies, empowering innovators with access to high-quality design and engineering talent.

Connect with me: LinkedInXCad Crowd